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Writer's pictureAnanya Pujari

7 Types of Indian Traditional Jewelry Every Woman Needs to Know

Updated: Dec 22, 2023



India has a rich culture of jewelry making. Intricate gold, silver, gemstone, and beadwork pieces hold deep meaning. Brides don traditional sets during weddings while everyday pieces show status. Below we will explore seven essential Indian jewellery styles to know.


Mangalsutra Chain

A mangalsutra necklace indicates a married woman. The black and gold beaded chain fastens behind the neck while the pendant rests near the heart. Many pendants feature two pearls symbolizing the couple or images of Hindu deities. 


The groom places the mangalsutra on the bride during their wedding ceremony. This chain and its pendant will then be worn for life to honor their bond. Though simple in design, a mangalsutra chain carries profound meaning.


Anklets - Tiny Leg Bells 


Delicate anklets, called payals, adorn most Indian women's feet. Tiny silver or gold bells link together with petite clasps. The soft jingling sounds are considered lucky to attract positivity and prosperity. 


Beyond function, payals add beauty to traditional outfits. Matching bangles, earrings, and necklaces complete the look. Payals make lovely gifts for daughters, sisters, and mothers.


Nose Rings 


For centuries, Indian women have worn nose rings instead of earrings. They signify honor and matrimony. Nose studs or hoops thread through the left nostril. Designs range from simple gold balls to diamond pave hoops to colorful bead clusters.


Nose rings remain an integral part of both North and Southern India's culture. Many women start wearing studded nose rings as teenagers and then continue this tradition throughout life. No Indian wedding look feels complete without one!


Bangle Bracelets


What ankle bells are to feet, bangles are to wrists. Stacks of thin bangles jingle together when arms move. Indian brides often wear churis - red and white glass bangles blessed by elders. These fragile bracelets symbolize the start of marriage.


While glass bangles break easily, gold and silver bangles last forever. Families pass down intricately carved bangles through generations. Well-to-do women display social status wearing precious kadas on each wrist. Humbler silver bangles work for daily wear.  


Ring Finger Bands


Contrary to Western custom, Indian wedding rings adorn the right hand rather than the left. Engagement and wedding bands share the fourth finger. Diamond solitaires signal betrothal. Later, the groom slides a plain gold band alongside to complete the set.


Some modern brides now wear both bands on the left hand to blend cultures. Either way, these rings carry the same eternal meaning. Simple gold bands suit Indian minimalism. Intricately carved bands offer more ornamentation.  


Kundan Jewellery


Kundan refer to gemstones embedded in gold or silver. Favored stones like rubies, emeralds, sapphires, and diamonds refract rainbows of light. Expert jewelers carefully set each stone into delicate filigree backings. 


From everyday stud earrings to extravagant wedding necklaces, Kundan jewelry dazzles. The meticulous handiwork involved makes each piece a wearable heirloom. Bridal Kundan sets pass through generations as family treasures. Their sparkle epitomizes India's vibrant culture.


Traditional Earrings


Long, dangling earrings accent most Indian women's daily dress. Whether studs or hoops, these earrings focus on lightweight metals and structural shapes. Sterling silver and high karat gold keep pieces comfortable for all-day wear. 


Embedded gems provides pops of colors, from ruby studs to emerald drops. Indian earrings come in many sizes and shapes too. Minimalist studs suit casual looks while chandeliers and shoulder dusting styles make for bridal glamour. Their designs showcase excellent Indian metalworking.


In Conclusion


From colorful gemstones to intricate filigree, traditional Indian jewelry encapsulates this unique country. Honor cultural heritage or celebrate weddings wearing these meaningful adornments. Let these seven essential Indian jewelry types elevate your personal style.


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